Quieter Days Ahead: Ordinance Curtailing the Noisiest Aircrafts Went Into Effect This Year

City of Los Angeles Ordinance #181106, the Noisier Jet Phase Out, was established in 2010, but one new sub-section went into effect at the beginning of this year, banning the arrival or takeoff of aircraft that create noise levels of 80dBa or higher. Aircraft that may be included in this portion of the Noisier Jet Phase Out include certain Gulfstreams, Hawkers, and Learjets.

The ban that began on January 1, 2014, was part of Section 5.2 Aircraft Operations – Maximum Noise Levels. This particular section of the ordinance, addressing noise levels, has been in effect since 2009. The ordinance goal is to decrease overall noise levels; the ordinance stipulates that by 2016, aircraft that create noise levels of 77dBA or higher will be prohibited from taking off or landing.

However, certain exemptions will be made, including:

Military aircraft and any government-owned or operated aircraft involved in law enforcement, emergency, fire or rescue operations.

Aircraft exempted by federal or state law for bona fide medical or lifesaving emergency, certain historic aircraft, and select others.

Certain specific historic aircraft.

Aircraft conducting operations for major repairs, major alterations, systems installations or warranty work (However, in such cases, documentation, VNY approval and strict compliance with other Airport rules will apply.)

Finally, a one-time exemption will be made for aircraft permanently departing VNY.